Pioneering Progress: The Top 10 Influential 3D Printing Personalities Shaping Additive Manufacturing in 2022

The year 2022 marked a pivotal and complex period for the global additive manufacturing industry. While presenting unique challenges stemming from the lingering health crisis and the significant economic repercussions of geopolitical conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, it was also a year defined by extraordinary resilience, groundbreaking innovation, and strategic advancements. Despite a landscape of uncertainties, the 3D printing sector witnessed remarkable growth and development, driven by forward-thinking leaders and visionary companies. These industry stalwarts not only navigated turbulent waters but also spearheaded initiatives that pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with 3D technologies, contributing significantly to market evolution and the broader adoption of additive solutions across various sectors. From revolutionary medical applications to sustainable manufacturing and large-format industrial breakthroughs, a select group of professionals stood out, demonstrating exceptional leadership, technical prowess, and a steadfast commitment to innovation. These individuals were instrumental in accelerating the industry’s trajectory, showcasing the transformative power of 3D printing. Join us as we shine a spotlight on the ten most influential 3D printing personalities of 2022, whose contributions left an indelible mark on the additive manufacturing landscape.

Sophie Brac de la Perrière, CEO & Co-founder of Healshape: Revolutionizing Regenerative Medicine

Sophie Brac de la Perrière, as the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Healshape, a pioneering French startup, has been at the forefront of a groundbreaking initiative set to transform reconstructive surgery. Her company is dedicated to developing an advanced regenerative medicine project focused on creating bioprinted breast implants. These innovative implants are designed specifically for women who have undergone mastectomies due to breast cancer, offering a more natural and integrated solution for breast reconstruction. Healshape’s prostheses represent a significant leap forward, utilizing state-of-the-art 3D bioprinting technology to fabricate implants from a specialized hydrogel. This hydrogel is formulated with natural and biomimetic materials, carefully engineered to encourage the patient’s own breast tissue to regenerate. The crucial advantage of this approach lies in its ability to harness the body’s natural healing processes, allowing the breast to regenerate using the patient’s own cells. This method not only ensures exceptional safety and biocompatibility for the graft but also promises a more natural look and feel, fundamentally improving the quality of life for cancer survivors. Prior to her entrepreneurial venture with Healshape, Sophie Brac de la Perrière amassed an impressive 16 years of experience at Sanofi, one of France’s largest and most respected pharmaceutical companies. Her extensive background primarily encompassed roles in development and business management, providing her with invaluable strategic and operational insights that now underpin Healshape’s ambitious mission. Her leadership and the company’s innovative work were widely recognized in 2022, culminating in Healshape securing a substantial €6 million in funding. Furthermore, the startup’s profound impact on the medical sector earned them the prestigious 3D Startup of the Year 2022 award at our ADDITIV Awards, cementing Sophie Brac de la Perrière’s status as a key innovator in the intersection of 3D printing and healthcare.

Avi Cohen, Vice President Global Sales at Massivit 3D: Advancing Large-Format Additive Manufacturing

Massivit 3D, a prominent manufacturer specializing in large-format 3D printers, maintains a significant global presence with key offices strategically located in Israel, North America, and Belgium. The company, and more specifically Avi Cohen, its Vice President of Worldwide Sales, earned a distinguished position among the most influential 3D printing personalities of 2022, primarily due to the introduction of their revolutionary Cast In Motion (CIM) technology. This groundbreaking innovation was unveiled to critical acclaim at Formnext 2022, integrated within their Massivit 10000 solution, captivating the industry with its potential. The CIM technology is meticulously engineered to enable the automated production of isotropic molds and tooling, a feature that dramatically accelerates the manufacturing process for composite materials. Massivit 3D’s core objective with this development was to address a critical industry need: providing a solution capable of accelerating mold production by an astounding 80%. This efficiency gain translates into a significant reduction in lead times, transforming what once took weeks into a matter of days, thereby enhancing manufacturing agility and cost-effectiveness across various industrial applications. Avi Cohen, a seasoned veteran in the additive manufacturing sector, brings a wealth of invaluable experience and strategic insight to Massivit 3D. His illustrious career in the industry spans over two decades, commencing in 1999 when he joined Stratasys, a pioneering force in 3D printing, as director of sales and marketing for the healthcare industry. Following his impactful tenure at Stratasys, he further honed his expertise over five years as VP at XJet Ltd, and subsequently spent two years as EVP Sales at Nanofabrica. This rich and diverse professional background, encompassing various leadership roles in leading additive manufacturing companies, culminated in his strategic move to Massivit 3D in October 2022. His arrival has undoubtedly injected fresh impetus and strategic direction into the company’s global sales efforts, reinforcing its position as a leader in large-format additive manufacturing innovation.

Kristin Mulherin, President of Women in 3D Printing: Championing Diversity and Inclusion

Kristin Mulherin stands as a prominent and influential figure in the additive manufacturing sector, currently serving as the President of Women in 3D Printing (Wi3DP). Founded in 2014, Wi3DP is a globally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment within the traditionally male-dominated engineering and manufacturing fields. Under Kristin’s dynamic leadership, the association continues its vital mission to promote, support, and inspire women professionals and aspiring talent across the additive manufacturing landscape. Her vision is to create a more equitable and diverse industry where women can thrive and contribute their full potential. The impact of Wi3DP under her guidance is truly global and expansive; the association now boasts an impressive membership of over 23,000 individuals, supported by more than 100 local chapters spread across 35 different countries. This extensive network provides invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and a strong community for women in 3D printing worldwide. Kristin’s own journey in the additive manufacturing industry spans over seven years, during which she has accumulated a wealth of diverse experience. She began her impactful career in 3D printing at LPW Carpenter Additive, a key player in metal additive manufacturing powders. Her professional trajectory also includes significant roles at other leading companies such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, Dyndrite, HP, and NEXA3D, where she consistently held various leadership positions, gaining profound insights into different facets of the industry, from materials to software and hardware. Prior to assuming the presidency in 2021, Kristin actively served on the Wi3DP board in 2020, demonstrating her commitment to the organization’s mission long before taking the helm. In 2019, she further extended her entrepreneurial spirit by founding AM-Cubed, a consultancy firm with a clear objective: to assist companies either entering the additive manufacturing market or, if already established, to significantly accelerate their growth and optimize their strategies. Her multifaceted expertise and unwavering dedication make Kristin Mulherin a pivotal force in driving both technological advancement and social progress within the 3D printing community.

Easton LaChappelle, CEO of Unlimited Tomorrow: Empowering Lives with Bionic Prosthetics

The year 2022 was tragically marked by global conflicts, most notably the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, which has had devastating humanitarian consequences. In response to this profound crisis, Easton LaChappelle, the visionary CEO of Unlimited Tomorrow, and his company made an extraordinary and deeply impactful contribution, earning them a distinguished place on our list. Unlimited Tomorrow stepped forward to provide critical assistance to Ukrainian amputees, offering them sophisticated 3D printed prosthetic arms. This humanitarian effort underscored the immense potential of additive manufacturing to address urgent global needs and improve human lives. This was not the first time Unlimited Tomorrow has garnered attention for their innovative work. Since Easton LaChappelle founded the company in 2014, his unwavering commitment has been to democratize access to high-quality, incredibly functional, yet remarkably affordable bionic prosthetic arms. His mission is rooted in the belief that advanced prosthetics should be available to anyone who needs them, regardless of their financial circumstances. Traditional prosthetic limbs are often prohibitively expensive and can require multiple fittings, making them inaccessible for many. Unlimited Tomorrow leverages advanced 3D scanning, artificial intelligence, and additive manufacturing techniques to create custom-fit, lifelike, and intuitive prosthetic devices that are significantly more affordable and quicker to produce. These bionic arms are designed to be intuitive, allowing users to control them with natural movements, thereby restoring a greater sense of independence and dignity. Easton LaChappelle’s leadership and the innovative spirit of Unlimited Tomorrow exemplify how cutting-edge technology, combined with a profound sense of social responsibility, can create tangible, life-changing solutions for individuals around the world. Their work with Ukrainian amputees highlighted the direct and immediate positive impact that 3D printing innovation can have in times of crisis and beyond.

Sherri Monroe, Executive Director Of AMGTA: Driving Sustainable Additive Manufacturing

Throughout 2022, the conversation around sustainability in manufacturing gained unprecedented momentum, and the Additive Manufacturing Green Trade Association (AMGTA) emerged as a leading voice in this critical dialogue. The AMGTA is dedicated to promoting the environmental benefits and sustainable practices of additive manufacturing as a superior alternative to traditional production methods. Steering this crucial organization as its new Executive Director since 2022 is Sherri Monroe, a respected leader with a diverse and impactful professional background. Her appointment signals a renewed focus on expanding the AMGTA’s reach and influence, advocating for greener manufacturing processes across the industry. Before assuming her role at AMGTA, Sherri Monroe served as an independent consultant, lending her expertise to a range of high-profile companies, including industry giants like Siemens Energy. This experience provided her with a deep understanding of complex industrial operations and the challenges and opportunities for integrating sustainable practices at scale. Her commitment to impactful leadership extends beyond the corporate world; she has also held significant executive positions in the non-profit sector, demonstrating a strong track record of driving positive change. Notably, she served as a regional director and executive director for the American Red Cross, where she managed critical humanitarian initiatives. Additionally, her tenure as director of marketing for the American Cancer Society further highlights her ability to lead and strategize for organizations with profound social missions. Her diverse experiences in corporate consulting and non-profit leadership equip her with a unique perspective on how to effectively bridge the gap between technological innovation and environmental responsibility within the additive manufacturing industry. In a candid interview featured in our “Talk3D” series, Sherri Monroe eloquently discussed the imperative link between 3D printing and sustainability, outlining AMGTA’s strategic objectives and the collective responsibility of the industry to embrace eco-friendly practices. Under her guidance, the AMGTA is poised to further solidify additive manufacturing’s reputation as a cornerstone of sustainable industrial development, inspiring companies to adopt more environmentally conscious production methods.

Ramon Pastor, Global Head and General Manager, 3D Metals at HP: Unveiling Metal Jet Technology

The year 2022 was a landmark period for HP, as the tech giant finally unveiled its highly anticipated and long-awaited 3D metal printing technology, marking a significant entry into a rapidly evolving sector of additive manufacturing. This pivotal moment firmly secured Ramon Pastor, Global Head and General Manager for 3D Metals at HP, a well-deserved place among the most influential 3D printing personalities of the year. Ramon’s extensive and distinguished career at HP began way back in 1992, showcasing decades of dedication and strategic insight within the company. Over his long tenure, he has held a multitude of critical roles, demonstrating a profound understanding of various facets of HP’s operations and technological advancements. His responsibilities have included overseeing strategic marketing for the large-format printing industry, a sector where HP maintains a strong global presence. Beyond marketing, he has contributed significantly across operations, research and development, and various other leadership positions, accumulating a comprehensive understanding of product lifecycle management and market dynamics. Academically, Ramon is exceptionally well-rounded, holding a Master’s Degree in engineering from the prestigious Polytechnic University of Catalonia, complementing this with a degree from the renowned IESE Business School, and even a bachelor’s degree in literature, underscoring his diverse intellectual capabilities. His leadership was crucial in the rollout of HP’s Metal Jet S100 solution, which made its debut at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in September. This launch was not just about introducing a new product; it was about HP signaling its serious commitment to transforming metal parts production. Ramon Pastor eloquently articulated the vision behind this launch, stating, “3D printed metal parts are a driving force for digital transformation, and the new Metal Jet S100 solution provides our customers with a best-in-class metal offering, from initial designs to production, but most importantly, it helps you realize the unlimited potential of digital manufacturing.” This statement encapsulates HP’s ambition to empower industries with advanced capabilities for creating highly complex, functional metal components efficiently and at scale, significantly impacting sectors from automotive to healthcare.

Shai Terem, CEO of Markforged: Strategic Expansion into Metal Binder Jetting

Since October 2020, Shai Terem has skillfully guided Markforged as its Chief Executive Officer, leading the company through a period of significant growth and strategic market expansion. His leadership trajectory at Markforged follows impactful tenures at other notable technology firms, including Kornit Digital Ltd and Stratasys, where he honed his expertise in innovative manufacturing solutions and business development. Shai’s robust academic background includes a degree in economics from Tel Aviv University and an MBA from the prestigious University of Chicago, providing him with a strong foundation in both finance and strategic management, which has proven instrumental in Markforged’s recent successes. The year 2022 marked a particularly momentous period for Markforged under Terem’s stewardship, as the company made a decisive and bold entry into the competitive binder jetting market. This strategic move was executed through the acquisition of Digital Metal, a highly respected Swedish company that has been a pioneering and leading player in the field of metal binder jetting since its establishment in 2003. The acquisition, valued at $40 million, was a calculated step that significantly broadened Markforged’s portfolio beyond its traditional strengths in continuous fiber composite and metal FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) 3D printing. By integrating Digital Metal’s proven binder jetting technology, Markforged is now positioned to offer a wider range of solutions for high-volume metal parts production, catering to industrial applications that demand speed, efficiency, and material versatility. This strategic expansion allows Markforged to address a larger segment of the industrial additive manufacturing market, further solidifying its standing as a comprehensive provider of advanced manufacturing solutions. Shai Terem’s vision to diversify the company’s technological offerings and tap into new market segments demonstrates his astute business acumen and commitment to driving Markforged’s continuous innovation and growth, making him a central figure in the 2022 additive manufacturing landscape.

Toshikazu Umatate, CEO of Nikon: A Giant Enters Additive Manufacturing

Toshikazu Umatate, a long-serving and highly respected executive at Nikon Corporation, has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the iconic Japanese company since he joined in April 1980. After holding various critical positions across the organization, he ascended to the pinnacle of leadership, becoming CEO in June 2019. While he is widely recognized as a major figure within Nikon, 2022 saw him make a strategic move that could very well establish him as an equally significant personality in the broader additive manufacturing market. This year, under his decisive leadership, Nikon made a colossal entry into the 3D printing industry by acquiring SLM Solutions, a German manufacturer renowned globally for its advanced metal additive manufacturing machines. This acquisition was not merely a diversification but a carefully considered strategic step, marking Nikon’s official and powerful entrance into the high-growth 3D printing market. This move represents a significant shift for Nikon, traditionally known for its precision optics, imaging products, and industrial metrology solutions. The strategic rationale behind this acquisition, as articulated by Toshikazu Umatate, is clear and forward-looking. He explained, “We are focused on digital manufacturing as a growth driver and will create value through the promising market of metal additive manufacturing for our stakeholders. 3D Printing will revolutionize mass-production by enabling our clients to manufacture highly complex parts, reduce cycle time, carbon emissions, energy costs and waste.” This statement highlights Nikon’s vision to leverage its deep expertise in precision engineering and optical technology to enhance and industrialize metal 3D printing. By acquiring SLM Solutions, Nikon aims to not only expand its business portfolio but also contribute to the ongoing digital transformation of manufacturing across various sectors, offering solutions that promise greater efficiency, design freedom, and environmental sustainability. Umatate’s bold decision has positioned Nikon as a serious contender in the additive manufacturing space, signaling a new era for both companies and the industry at large.

Blake Teipel, CEO and Co-Founder of Essentium: Innovating Industrial Additive Manufacturing

Blake Teipel, an accomplished entrepreneur with a robust academic background, holds a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering from Texas A&M University, complementing his B.S. in mechanical engineering from Colorado State University. This strong foundation in both fundamental science and practical engineering has been the bedrock of his innovative career. Driven by an inherent entrepreneurial spirit, Blake co-founded Essentium Materials in 2013, a company that has since evolved into the prominent industrial additive manufacturing firm known today as Essentium. Under Blake Teipel’s visionary leadership, Essentium has made significant strides in advancing high-performance additive manufacturing solutions for industrial applications, particularly in demanding sectors such as aerospace, defense, and automotive. The company focuses on developing advanced materials, hardware, and software that enable reliable, high-speed, and cost-effective production of functional parts. A testament to the market’s confidence in Essentium’s technology and vision, the company successfully raised an impressive $22.2 million in funding under Blake’s guidance. This financial backing was intended to fuel further research, development, and market expansion. Furthermore, in an ambitious move reflecting Essentium’s rapid growth and potential, the company announced plans to go public through a SPAC merger in 2022. While this project is currently on hold due to challenging market conditions, Blake Teipel’s resilience and strategic perspective were evident in his public statements regarding the development. He commented, “We appreciate the Atlantic Coastal team’s support and guidance throughout this process, and we are disappointed that market conditions prevented the parties from consummating this agreement. We will continue to leverage the strength of our additive manufacturing technology and product system validated by the Department of Defence to continue to advance additive manufacturing globally.” This statement underscores Essentium’s unwavering commitment to its core mission and its robust technological foundation, which includes critical validation from the Department of Defense. Blake Teipel’s ability to navigate complex business environments while maintaining a clear strategic direction for Essentium highlights his leadership qualities and dedication to pushing the boundaries of industrial 3D printing, making him a pivotal figure in the additive manufacturing landscape of 2022.

Eshchar Ben-Shitrit, CEO and Co-Founder of Redefine Meat: Pioneering Alt-Meat with 3D Printing

Eshchar Ben-Shitrit, as the visionary co-founder and CEO of Redefine Meat, has emerged as a groundbreaking figure in both the food technology and additive manufacturing sectors. His journey into this innovative field began after a solid academic foundation, having graduated from Hebrew University of Jerusalem with a law degree and subsequently earning a master’s degree in business administration. This unique blend of legal and business acumen, combined with professional experience in both fields, equipped him with the strategic insight necessary to embark on a truly disruptive venture. In 2018, Eshchar founded Redefine Meat with a bold mission: to revolutionize the food industry by creating plant-based meat alternatives that authentically replicate the sensory experience of traditional animal meat. What sets Redefine Meat apart is its pioneering use of advanced 3D printing technology to achieve this ambitious goal. By employing additive manufacturing, the company can precisely layer various plant-based ingredients to mimic the complex fibrous structure, juiciness, and mouthfeel of different cuts of meat. The objective is not just to create a substitute but an “alt-meat” product that truly delivers on the same look, feel, and, most importantly, taste as animal meat, thereby appealing to a broader consumer base, including staunch meat-eaters. Since its inception, Redefine Meat has experienced exponential growth in a remarkably short period, demonstrating the immense market demand for sustainable and delicious meat alternatives. Their innovative “New-Meat” products are not confined to specialized vegan stores; they have successfully penetrated mainstream culinary establishments. By 2022, their plant-based meats could already be found in over 200 restaurants across Israel, and their global expansion included prominent dining establishments in major European cities like London, Amsterdam, and Berlin. This rapid market penetration underscores the quality and appeal of their 3D printed products. Furthermore, the company’s success attracted significant investor confidence, leading to an impressive $135 million raised in an investment round in 2022. This substantial funding round will further accelerate their research, development, and global expansion efforts. Now employing over 150 dedicated individuals worldwide, Redefine Meat, under Eshchar Ben-Shitrit’s leadership, is not only changing how we perceive and consume meat but also showcasing the incredible versatility and impact of 3D printing in addressing global challenges like food sustainability and ethical consumption.

The year 2022 was undeniably a testament to the dynamic nature and inherent resilience of the additive manufacturing industry. Despite a global backdrop of economic turbulence and geopolitical shifts, the individuals highlighted above rose to the occasion, not merely adapting to change but actively driving it. From revolutionizing medical treatments with bioprinted implants to democratizing access to bionic prosthetics for those affected by conflict, and from championing sustainable manufacturing practices to pushing the boundaries of large-format and metal 3D printing, these leaders have collectively advanced the field in profound ways. Their strategic decisions, technological innovations, and unwavering dedication have not only shaped the additive manufacturing market in 2022 but have also laid robust foundations for its continued evolution. They remind us that behind every technological breakthrough are visionaries committed to making a tangible difference. Their efforts underscore the critical role that 3D printing plays in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from healthcare and humanitarian aid to industrial efficiency and environmental sustainability. The future of additive manufacturing looks brighter and more innovative than ever, thanks to the pioneering spirit of these influential personalities. What are your thoughts on these trailblazers who significantly impacted the 3D printing market in 2022? We encourage you to share your insights and comments below or engage with us on our Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter pages. To stay informed about the latest advancements and news in the world of 3D printing, don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, delivering the most relevant updates straight to your inbox! You can also explore all our in-depth discussions and interviews by visiting our YouTube channel.